The 2009 Hyundai Azera is somewhat limited in its mission, but it does it well. The front-wheel-drive Azera appeals to those who value ride comfort over handling, and interior space over style statements.

The styling of the Hyundai Azera is anonymous but competent. New wheel designs and a tweaked chrome grille are switched in for 2009, and inside, the Azera now offers new wood and metal grain accents.

The Azera GLS gets its power from a 3.3-liter V-6 that produces 234 horsepower. It can achieve 18 mpg city, 26 highway. The Azera Limited has a 3.8-liter V-6 that makes 263 hp and achieves fuel economy of 17/26 mpg. A five-speed automatic incorporates Shiftronic for manual gear changes.

The driving experience in the 2009 Hyundai Azera is characterized by light steering, lots of wheel motion, and plenty of body roll. It’s how big cars used to handle, and while it’s not sloppy, it’s almost devoid of any sporting feel.

The Azera is a big, rather heavy sedan—which plays a role in its handling. Fortunately, however, the large size means that the Azera has an impressive 44 inches of front-seat legroom and more than 38 inches of legroom for rear-seat passengers—as much as (or more
than) some traditional-brand luxury cars that can cost twice as much.
The 2009 Hyundai Azera sports features like a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, an electrochromatic mirror with compass, HomeLink garage door opener, and power driver and
passenger seats. The Premium package on the GLS includes leather heated seats and a sunroof, while top-of-the-line Limited models get 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, heated front seats, wood trim, a power rear sunshade, a sunroof, and an Infinity audio system. For 2009,

Hyundai offers new iPod/USB inputs and a fresh audio display screen.
Available options include a power-adjustable tilt-and-telescopic steering column, integrated memory system, power-adjustable foot pedals, rain-sensing wipers, and an LG navigation system. Bluetooth connectivity is available, though only as a port-installed option.

The Azera has four-star front impact crash protection and five-star ratings for driver-side impact protection, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). All 2009 Azera sedans have eight airbags and active head restraints.